Simulator tests can predict driving ability.

Is it true that Simulator tests can predict driving ability?

Partly. Several small clinical studies report that simulator-based measures correlate with cognitive tests and on-road driving performance in specific patient groups, while one simulator validation paper says the ability to predict driving performance still needs study and a review calls the evidence inconclusive. The evidence covers only narrow populations and partial correlations, not a general claim that simulator tests predict driving ability.

Verdict: CONTESTED PARTIAL · 3 sources for, 2 against · Last checked 17 Oct 2026

The private library was unavailable for some searches in this check. Missing library results are not evidence against the claim.

Eşme, M., Aran, O. T., Balcı, C., Temizkan, E., Ceylan, S., Koca, M., Baş, A. O., Torpil, B., Altuntaş, O., Uyanık, M., Halil, M., Cankurtaran, M., & Doğu, B. B. (2023). Older patients’ driving safety with the help of DRIVING SIMULATOR: Which cognitive test can predict better driving safety?. doi.org. https://doi.org/10.32552/2023.actamedica.884

Frontiers | Validation of a computerized driving simulator test of cognitive abilities for fitness-to-drive assessments. (n.d.). frontiersin.org. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1294965/full

Maintenance of wakefulness test as a predictor of driving performance in patients with untreated obstructive sleep apnea. (2007). hal.science. https://hal.science/hal-04346344v1

Crivelli, L., Russo, M. J., Farez, M. F., Bonetto, M., Prado, C., & Calandri, I. L. (2019). Driving and Alzheimer's disease: A neuropsychological screening battery for the elderly. doi.org. https://doi.org/10.1590/1980-57642018dn13-030008

XE, B., JR, G., CL, F., & EE, C. (2026). Visual field and driving performance of individuals with inherited retinal disorders: a scoping review.. doi.org. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjophth-2026-002913